JFK is being buried And we have a day off from high school. Hanging around Jim’s house Watching the funeral procession on the tube. Thirsty, we raid Jim’s fridge against his wishes; Someone forgets to close the door. Upset, Jim pushes the door closed. I move away, but the door’s ajar; So he pushes harder. Resistance. Angry, Jim shoves his body against the door. The kitten’s head is crushed, All she wanted was the milk She smelled as I rummaged for a Coke.

(Perhaps curiosity Killed this cat.)

The cat’s half dead, Jim tries to put her to sleep With his truck’s exhaust. She mews meekly and clings to life, Her head cocked at an unnatural angle. So, Jim digs a hole for his sister’s cat, Her precious, and gently places her in it And presses down hard on her neck With the shovel blade in one last act of mercy, As JFK’s body is laid to rest.

We go back inside and watch John John give that brave salute As his dad’s flag-draped casket passes by.